A festive atmosphere prevailed at the recent Service Awards celebration for employees marking 25 years or more of service to the University. Two hundred eighty honorees and their guests filled the SAC ballroom with laughter and conversation as they reconnected with colleagues and shared memories of their years at Stony Brook.
The banquet and award ceremony for those celebrating 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45-year milestones included a cocktail hour with a jazz trio featuring Department of Music students Ben Brewer on double bass, Andrea Daly on vocals and Brad Whiteley on piano. An elegant dinner and recognition ceremony followed with time afterward to mingle with old and new friends.
Stony Brook University President Samuel L. Stanley Jr. expressed his gratitude at the dedication, unique talents and contributions of everyone who helped shape Stony Brook throughout the years. With historical references and humor, he added sparkle to the evening and put everyone in a festive spirit.
“For your unique accomplishments and dedication, and on behalf of all the lives you have touched, I applaud you,” the President said in his introduction. “Without your hard work and commitment, we would not be where we are today.”
President Stanley and Provost Dennis Assanis took turns at the podium recognizing the three 45-year and six 40-year honorees, who were individually introduced and brought up on stage for a photo. The 25- and 30-year honorees were applauded as a group, and the 35-year employees were individually introduced and brought up on stage for a group photo.
The annual Service Awards celebration is one of the few celebrations that bring the whole Stony Brook community together. Attendees came from all areas of campus and as far away as the Elsie Owens North Brookhaven Health Center.
A total of 295 people achieved recognized levels of service in 2011: 140 reached 25 years; 118 reached 30 years; 22 reached 35 years; 10 reached 40 years; and 5 reached 45 years. Attendees at the event wore ribbons displaying their years of service. Twenty-five-year honorees were given commemorative Tiffany pins, while those who’d served for 30 or more years selected individual Tiffany gifts.
“The evening was a beautiful celebration honoring our dedicated employees who make the University and Medical Center such a great place to work,” said Diana Hannan, Director of Conferences and Special Events.
—Toby Speed
Add comment